News

Mar 16th, 2017

BBC extend Masters rights

Not throwing in the golf towel yet

Words: James Greenwood Photography: Getty Images

The BBC has agreed an extension to its deal to broadcast the Masters, so the broadcaster hasn't completely thrown in the towel over its golf coverage.

The new agreement includes highlights of the opening two rounds of the tournament, as well as live coverage of the Saturday and Sunday rounds.

Radio 5 live and Radio 5 Live Sports Extra will also have live commentary on all four tournament days

The audience can access four digital feeds from Amen Corner, holes 15 and 16, featured groups and the driving range.

"We're extremely proud of our partnership with the Masters Tournament, and this new deal highlights our longstanding commitment to bringing world–class golf to the widest possible audience on free–to–air TV, " said Barbara Slater, director of BBC Sport.

"In addition, our radio and digital offerings will bring audiences closer to the action than ever before. The Masters remains one of the standout events on the sporting calendar, bringing together the world's best players in a truly unique setting."

It's a bit of relief to see the BBC set up to the plate on the Masters. It could so easily have slipped away, especially as the Beeb's commitment to golf and sport in general seems so frail. We are getting ready to settle down for 4 days of golf bliss starting on the 6th of April. We'll try and get some work done at the same time, but we won't over–promise!